Although the practice of cigarette smoking has declined over the past few years, vaping only continues to grow in popularity – around 5.66 million adults in the United States vape on average, in addition to over 2.5 million middle and highschool students, Forbes reports. Vaping cannabidiol (CBD) – an active ingredient found in cannabis sativa and hemp plants – oil is an emerging trend in vape culture. CBD oil is popular in health and wellness spaces for its ability to potentially improve health issues, such as, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, and insomnia. If you’re considering starting to vape with CBD oil, it’s important to do your research first to make sure it’s the right choice for you.
CBD oil benefits: alleviating anxiety, depression, and insomnia
CBD is a naturally occurring chemical linked to a host of health benefits. Since it doesn’t contain tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive ingredient found in marijuana, CBD doesn’t have the ability to make you high. In particular, CBD has been proven to improve anxiety and depression – a study published in the Brazilian Journal of Psychiatry measured anxiety levels in participants prior to a public speaking task. Participants took either 150 milligrams, 300 milligrams, or 600 milligrams of CBD before speaking, while others took a placebo.
Anxiety levels were significantly lower in participants who received 300 milligrams than those who received the placebo. Moreover, CBD is also used to alleviate insomnia, inflammation, and chronic pain, as well as reduce symptoms of PTSD and arthritis. In addition to use in vaping, CBD oil can be consumed orally and applied topically. Keep in mind, however, more research is still needed to clarify CBD’s potential health benefits. And, so far, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has only approved one CBD-based pharmaceutical product (a medication used to treat severe epilepsy).
What are the benefits of vaping CBD oil?
Vaping CBD oil can be a useful way to help you quit smoking, or reduce your nicotine intake. In fact, CBD has even been found to potentially curb cigarette cravings due to its ability to impede the metabolism of nicotine. Since it may also reduce anxiety and provide anti-inflammatory benefits, CBD may be an effective, non-addictive nicotine substitute, although it’s best used in combination with other proven stop-smoking treatments. It’s essential to note, however, research into vaping CBD oil is still in its early days, and whether it has the same benefits as taking CBD oil orally or topically has yet to be proven.
What ingredients are found in CBD oil vapes?
Vape juice is a key ingredient used to refill the vape tank. Although flavorless CBD oil is an option, you can also add various flavors to enhance your vaping experience. Mango, peach, and pineapple fusion, for example, lends a tropical fruit twist. Adding flavor is also a good choice for those who may not enjoy the natural taste of CBD alone. Propylene glycol is also included as a diluent in CBD oil vapes that facilitates the vaporization and inhalation of the oil. It also functions to boost the oil’s overall potency and flavor.
Vegetable glycerin is another important ingredient used as a carrier agent in CBD oil vape pens; it’s derived from plant oils, odorless, and safe for consumption. Terpenes is also a common ingredient found in CBD oil vapes. Terpenes are organic hydrocarbon compounds derived from fruit and plants, including hemp, and research shows they may have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Terpenes essentially work in harmony with CBD to generate what’s known as the “entourage effect” – the combined effect of all CBD components working better together than they do alone to maximize the benefits. Certain terpenes also offer clear benefits that may make them a superior choice for vaping. Limonene, for example, contains anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antifungal and antibacterial properties, while beta-caryophyllene, on the other hand, can potentially help relieve pain and anxiety, as well as reduce cholesterol.
Is CBD oil vaping safe?
If you’re considering vaping with CBD oil specifically to address a health issue, it’s important to consult your doctor first. Although CBD oil is generally considered safe for use topically or orally, long-term safety data is lacking when it comes to vaping. Before going ahead with a certain vape, it’s important to ensure it uses high-quality, lab-tested CBD oil. Additionally, be sure your chosen vape is free from harmful additives, chemicals, or toxins. Ideally, you should also begin vaping with a low dose, before slowly increasing if needed, so as to better prevent any unwanted side effects.
Vaping CBD oil is a popular trend usually used in an attempt to boost mood and relieve pain. By taking care to research the benefits and potential drawbacks, you’ll be in the best position to decide whether vaping CBD oil is the right choice for you.
